Current Research from Top Journals

A meta-analysis found that mothers participating in a prenatal exercise group were less likely to have a large newborn, less likely to need a cesarean section, and no more likely to have a low birthweight baby than those who did not exercise. The study supports proper prenatal care advice which advocates for mothers to exercise during pregnancy if allowed by the physician.

A randomized trial found that participants in a mindfulness awareness group showed significant improvement in insomnia symptoms, depression symptoms, and fatigue. Although the trial was small, mindfulness meditation has has been linked to both physical and mental health benefits, including stress reduction. More research may support this finding.

A systematic review found that participants given chewing gum after abdominal surgery may have a faster return to normal for their digestive system. Unfortunately, the quality of trials is low and more research will need to be done before this simple solution is confirmed.

Many medical groups felt that early exposure to certain foods like peanuts increased a child's risk of developing food allergies. However, newer research including this trial suggest that early exposure may actually decrease the risk of developing food allergies.

Obesity is associated with a complex combination of factors but the earliest feeding habits may play a role in childhood obesity. A review of studies across several countries found that breastfeeding may decrease the risk of obesity in childhood.

Removing the tonsils is a common procedure in children. It is often recommended for children with recurrent infections of the throat to reduce sick days. A study, completed in the United Kingdom, found that a tonsillectomy was associated with fewer sore throats in children who were selected to have the surgery.

Health and medical shows are some of the most popular talk shows on television. The hosts, highlighted as experts, offer a plethora of information but this study has found that almost half of those recommendations have little research support.

Osteoarthritis can make basic movement more difficult and in older adults this can increase the risk of falls. Balance is a major factor in falls and a complication of osteoarthritis but this trial has shown that strength, tai chi, and aerobic training may effectively improving balance in people with osteoarthritis.

Exercise during pregnancy has been associated with many benefits for mom and baby. This review supports the trend and finds that even one day of purposeful activity per week may reduce the need for cesarean birth.

All EBSCO Publishing proprietary, consumer health and medical information found on this site is accredited by URAC. URAC's Health Web Site Accreditation Program requires compliance with 53 rigorous standards of quality and accountability, verified by independent audits. To send comments or feedback to our Editorial Team regarding the content please email us at
HLEditorialTeam@ebscohost.com.

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.